Sate your appetite for history and culture while in Abilene, Texas; the gateway to the wide open west. Over 100,000 residences and visitors alike choose the destination because of the town’s historic and cultural appeal. You can attend one of the annual events or visit museums and music halls. Restaurants, shops and entertainment are situated in downtown Abilene.

Events that draw in travelers and locals alike include the Western Heritage Classic, the West Texas Fair and Rodeo. Both events celebrate Aniline-s rich history relating to oil, acres of ranches and railroads that allowed for transportation out to the old west. The Western Heritage Classic runs for three days in May and features events including the Ranch Rodeo; a major crowd drawer. Eleven area ranches make up the Ranch Rodeo. You can watch a parade march through downtown Abilene or take part in a chuck wagon cook off. The West Texas Fair and Rodeo, a 10-day September event, gives visitors the chance to ride rides and explore exhibits that tell of old, west Texas.

Add a a bit of culture while you’re exploring Abilene by attending one of the shows held at Paramount theater. The theater’s decorations of unique art and painted ceiling draw in visitors who watch classic movies, listen to concerts and see plays.